ASL is now the third most studied modern language in the U.S., highlighting the growing importance and demand for ASL proficiency. As such, the Certificate of Achievement in American Sign Language is designed to meet the needs of students seeking ASL fluency for a variety of purposes. For students pursuing other fields of study or those already employed, the COA can be earned alongside a degree or on its own and can serve as verification of ASL proficiency to employers who place an increasing demand on bilingual skills. The program bridges communication between the Deaf and Hearing communities by equipping students with the linguistic and cultural competency to interact with Deaf people in their respective fields as well as in their homes and neighborhoods, while field experiences embedded within the coursework contribute to a greater appreciation for Deaf people as members of a diverse cultural group. Students also gain an understanding of historical and present day factors which contribute to policies and practices that impact the community and learn ways to serve effectively as allies.

The certificate is made up of a series of four consecutive courses in the language and one Deaf Studies course.  The program can be completed within two years.  It should be noted that a certificate alone is not adequate qualification to interpret professionally or to work within an ASL-related field.  For students interested in careers working within the Deaf community, an Associate in Arts degree in Deaf Studies should be pursued (see A.A. in Deaf Studies).

To earn a Certificate of Achievement (COA), a student must complete all courses within the certificate with a grade of "C" or better (or "P"). 

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to: 

• Interpersonal Communication: Engage in conversation at an emerging advanced level of ASL and apply Deaf cultural norms and behaviors for social interaction in a variety of contexts.
• Presentational Communication: Share stories and detailed information to express thoughts and opinions in ASL on a variety of studied topics using advanced grammar and vocabulary and demonstrating control of delivery in an academic register.
• Comprehension: Comprehend a wide range of ASL discourse to obtain information and appreciate stories and artistic expressions of ASL.
• Culture Comparison: Explain how current and historical events and factors have influenced and continue to shape the diversity of experiences, perspectives, and language dialects that exist throughout the American Deaf community and the common values and practices that define Deaf culture.
• Critical Thinking Social Justice: Advocate effectively for the linguistic rights, cultural autonomy, and social equality of deaf people.